Legendary Nebraska Cornhuskers coach Tom Osborne has received the National Football Foundation’s (NFF) esteemed Gold Medal, the organization’s highest individual award, recognizing his profound and lasting contributions to the sport of football .
The award was presented at the NFF Annual Awards Dinner in New York City, where Osborne received a standing ovation from fellow coaches, former players, and Football Hall of Famers . The NFF describes the Gold Medal as a tribute to individuals who exemplify the highest ideals of amateur football—leadership, character, and dedication both on and off the field .
Osborne’s legacy at Nebraska is legendary. From 1973 to 1997, he compiled a remarkable 255–49–3 record, led the Cornhuskers to three national championships (1994, 1995, 1997), and secured 13 conference titles . His teams were famous for their discipline, innovative strategy, and unwavering excellence—never losing more than nine games in a season throughout his head coaching tenure .
But Osborne’s influence extended far beyond the gridiron. As NFF chairman Archie Manning pointed out, Osborne is “a coach, a mentor, a statesman, and above all, a man of unwavering character,” who used football as a platform to shape young lives . After stepping down from coaching, he served in Congress for three terms and later became Nebraska’s athletic director, guiding the university through a period of realignment while continuing to advocate for student-athlete welfare .
Osborne also co-founded the TeamMates Mentoring Program with his wife Nancy, which has supported thousands of youth across Nebraska and beyond .
Humbled by the honor, Osborne said, “Football has been a significant part of my life… as a platform to influence and shape lives positively,” noting that the award celebrates the collective efforts of his players, coaches, and community .
Tom Osborne’s reception of the NFF Gold Medal cements his status as one of football’s most respected icons—an enduring symbol of excellence, integrity, and service whose impact will echo for generations.